Every year, millions of people usher in January with a renewed sense of purpose. “This is the year,” we tell ourselves. The year to lose weight, save money, get organized, or finally write that book. By mid-February, unused gym memberships, stagnant savings, and dusty journals abound. Why do New Year’s resolutions so often fail?

The truth is, the concept of New Year’s resolutions has flaws from the start. Here’s why:

1. Resolutions Are Vague and Unrealistic

Most resolutions are broad and lack specificity. “I want to get fit” or “I’ll eat healthier” sound great, but without concrete goals, there’s no roadmap to follow. Worse yet, many resolutions are overly ambitious, setting people up for failure. For example, saying, “I’ll go to the gym every day” may inspire on January 1st. But, it can quickly become unsustainable.

2. Timing Is Arbitrary

Why January 1st? The calendar date holds no magical power. Cultivating change because the year has turned over doesn’t work. Change is most successful when it matches true readiness and motivation. Starting on January 1st can pressure us to change. Those changes may not feel authentic or achievable.

3. All-or-Nothing Thinking

Many resolutions fail because they rely on perfection. Missing one day at the gym or indulging in a piece of cake can lead to a sense of failure. This all-or-nothing mindset can derail even the most determined people. It may cause them to abandon their goals.

4. Lack of a Plan

Resolutions often focus on the outcome rather than the process. People resolve to “lose 20 pounds” but fail to outline the steps required to get there. Without a plan with measurable actions, it’s easy to lose focus and motivation.

5. Motivation Wanes

In the early days of January, motivation is high. But as the novelty of the new year fades and life returns to normal, that initial spark can dwindle. Sustained change needs more than a burst of enthusiasm. It requires discipline, systems, and support.

What to Do Instead

If New Year’s resolutions don’t work, what does? Here are some alternative strategies for creating lasting change:

1. Set SMART Goals

Instead of vague resolutions, set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals. For example, “I’ll walk 30 minutes, five days a week” is clear and actionable.

2. Start Anytime

Don’t wait for January 1st to make changes. Start when you feel ready and motivated, whether that’s in the middle of a week, month, or year. Personal growth doesn’t adhere to a calendar.

3. Focus on Habits, Not Outcomes

Instead of seeking a specific result, focus on building habits. They will lead to the desired outcome. Instead of resolving to “lose weight,” commit to cooking healthy meals at home three times a week.

4. Break It Down

Big goals can be overwhelming. Break them into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate progress along the way. Incremental change is more sustainable than trying to overhaul your life overnight.

5. Build Accountability and Support

Share your goals with a trusted friend, join a group, or find a mentor. Accountability can help keep you on track and provide encouragement when motivation wanes.

6. Embrace Flexibility

Understand that setbacks are part of the process. Don’t abandon your goal after a misstep. View it as a chance to learn and adjust your approach.

The Bottom Line

New Year’s resolutions fail not for lack of willpower. They fail because the system is flawed. Lasting change isn’t about grand New Year’s declarations. It’s about small, consistent actions taken with intent and purpose. This year, skip the resolutions. Focus on a lifestyle that matches your values and goals. You might find it’s the start of your best year yet.